Subsea collection and containment system for hydrocarbon emissions.

ABSTRACT

A rapidly deployable flexible enclosure system for the collection, containment and presentation of hydrocarbon emissions from compromised shallow or deepwater oil and gas well systems, pipelines, including subsea fissures. 
     The flexible containment enclosure can accommodate any depth and adapt to any collection terminator configuration required. 
     The flexible containment enclosure system is connected to the floating platform and supported by positive offset neutral buoyancy attachment devices. 
     The floating platform may be assembled onshore and towed, ferried or assembled on site. 
     Liquid and gaseous materials are directed to separate ports for removal from the rigid enclosure cavity integrated within the floating platform. Gaseous emissions may optionally be directed to a tethered floating flare system. 
     The systems all weather capabilities include the ability to submerge for extended durations and resurface on demand by transmitted signal or manually providing operations during hurricanes, heaving seas, and other surface threats.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

An all weather platform with self supporting flexible containmentenclosure system for compromised shallow to deep water offshore oil andgas well systems and, other types of marine subsurface hydrocarbonemissions, operated as a submersible capable floating platform withattached co-located floating flare system, providing a means for theeffective collection, containment and presentation of liquid and gaseousemissions for safe and efficient removal.

References Cited U.S. Patent Documents 4,283,159 August 1981 Johnson4,290,714 September 1981 Strange 4,358,218 November 1982 Graham4,531,860 July 1985 Barnett 5,114,273 May 1992 Anderson 5,195,842 March1993 Sakow

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Oil leakage and or other environmentally sensitive hydrocarbon emissionsoriginating from varied underwater compromised locations, includingnatural events, need to be addressed quickly and effectively to minimizedamage. The longer the delay to respond and provide effectiveremediation for these situations, may cause unintended and exponentialproblems across economic, environmental and societal realms.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The principle object of the invention is to provide a “life jacket orinsurance” for the offshore oil and gas production industry and otherresponders with the advent of a readily deployable, effective andresponsive system for compromised offshore subsurface wellheads,pipelines and associated systems or underground fissures to address thecollection, containment and the presentation of the material emissionsto responsible collection vessels that can manage and remove the productuntil the breached integrity has been corrected.

A featured object and embodiment of the floating platform if required,is the ability to perform submergence and resurfacing actions. Theaction to submerge said floating platform addresses increased levels ofreliability and survivability to avoid heaving seas during hurricanes,tropical systems, other surface disturbances and or threats includingpotential above surface flammable situations.

The aforementioned feature places the platform safely below the surfaceat a desired depth where there is minimal or no turbulence providingminimal stress to the floating platform and the containment enclosuresystem and enabling the continuation of the containment activities ofliquid material and the porting of gaseous material ensuring asignificantly higher level of mission success.

Another object of the invention is the control, reduction or eliminationof potential methane hydrates that may potentially block pipelines,risers and other processing or containment equipment, particularly whenthe product is under pressure and is combined with water frequentlycausing methane ice and sludge to form with the potential of creatingproduction related issues. Reductions in methane icing and sludge isaccomplished by an immediate pressure reduction and isolation from thewater by the boundary barrier of the containment enclosure. This methodprovides an adequate volumetric chamber for any hydrates to reduce involume by their naturally changing state by out gassing during ascentand benefiting by the lack of pressure in the containment enclosure.

The ship or tending vessel would either moor directly alongside thefloating platform containment and collection system with appropriatebumpers or ideally be held at a distance from the ship(s) or tender(s)by lines and or outriggers. The management of the liquid and gaseousproducts may be ported and transferred to ship(s) or tenders(s) forstorage and or flaring of the gaseous material.

Another subordinate feature of the invention required for gaseousemissions, is the included alternative flaring floating structure todistance the ported gaseous material away from the floating platform andother vessels in the area and to flare or burn off the gaseous materialin a safe and low profile fashion in lieu of an appropriate vessel tostay on station to provide such capabilities.

Another feature of the invention is the volumetric capacity capabilitiesof the self supporting flexible enclosures that enables the enclosuresto be partially evacuated by a crude carrier and to depart from thelocation with potentially a sufficient amount of time having lapsedbefore another crude carrier is required to be on station, to againpartially evacuate the self supporting flexible enclosure system. Acrude carrier vessel does not need to constantly be on station asreserve capacities are built into the floating platform containmentenclosure system based on flow rates being contained.

The systems in this invention have foremost in priority by design, theergonomic interfaces, safety considerations for personnel and theoperations of underwater ROV s to efficiently install, manage and,manipulate the deployed system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 Top view of an all weather system floating platform.

FIG. 2 Side view of an all weather system floating platform.

FIG. 3A Front view of a flexible containment enclosure panel section.

FIG. 3B Front view of terminators to support upper and lower sections.

FIG. 3C Front view of terminators for an external accessory terminator.

FIG. 3D Flexible containment enclosure interior compression seal view.

FIG. 3E Flexible containment enclosure exterior compression seal view.

FIG. 4A Side view of I connection component for containment enclosures.

FIG. 4B Side view of Y connection component for containment enclosures.

FIG. 4C Side view of the I connection component with barrierenhancement.

FIG. 4D Side view of the Y connection component with barrierenhancement.

FIG. 4E Side view of multiple Y connection layers.

FIG. 4F Side view of multiple I connection layers.

FIG. 5A Illustrates a deployed system—partial view of moorings, PONBADs.

FIG. 5B Expands on the PONBAD attachment method and terminators.

FIG. 6A View of a deployed self supporting flexible enclosure terminus.

FIG. 6B Typical terminus showing the containment panel connection plate.

FIG. 6C Typical terminus top view of containment panel connection plate.

FIG. 7A Side view of multiple enclosure lower section terminus andports.

FIG. 7B Side view of terminus showing containment panel connectionplate.

FIG. 7C Top view of containment panel connection plate.

FIG. 8 Side view of multiple enclosure top section bridge.

FIG. 9A Side view of suspended flexible enclosure terminus over afissure.

FIG. 9B Side view of terminus weighted panel skirt.

FIG. 10A Side view of Floating Flare Platform.

FIG. 10B Top view of Floating Flare Platform.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Drawing Group 1 andDiscussion

FIG. 1 provides a top view and illustrates a floating platform 1structure.

The flotation vessels 1A are major components and foundation of thefloating platform 1 to build upon and provide the attachment of othersystems and components. The requirements for enhanced structuralintegrity and reliability in the design and fabrication is paramountwith the flotation vessels 1A including all aspects of the floatingplatform 1, subordinate components and systems.

Preferably the structural metal embodiments of this invention utilizesignificant amounts of 5086 marine grade aluminum alloy and isconstructed in such a manner as to eliminate or minimize the movement ofconnected adjacent structural sections or components and potentialcreation of fatigue points.

A featured embodiment of the floating platform 1 is a capability tosubmerge for a prolonged period and to resurface when required. Thissubmergence capability provides an increased level of reliability forsaid floating platform 1 enabling the avoidance or minimal impact due toheaving seas prior to and the duration of hurricanes, tropical systems,other surface disturbances or threats, including, but not limited topotential above surface flammable situations.

The aforementioned feature places the platform 1 safely below thesurface at a desired depth where there is minimal or no turbulenceproviding less stress to said floating platform 1 and subordinatesystems that it supports, continuing the containment activities of theliquid material and the venting of gaseous materials thereby ensuring asignificantly higher level of mission success.

The flotation vessels 1A that support the floating and submersibleplatform 1 preferably contain a plurality of interior bulkheads, bafflesand interfaces for the controlled and specific movement of liquid or gasto provide the desired buoyancy required and to enhance the stability ofthe floating platform 1 by the uniform distribution and controlledmovement of liquid ballast to preclude instability due to agitation andexternal movements by varying sea conditions.

The flotation vessels 1A may be made from aluminum, steel, PVC or othermaterials that prove to be adequate in performance and application andof other shapes and dimensions.

The floating platform structure 1 and flotation vessels 1A preferablyare constructed substantially from materials to include a supercorrosion resistant marine grade aluminum 5086 alloy, 316 stainlesssteel fasteners and or other appropriate materials.

Other materials may be considered providing varying levels of structuralintegrity include steel, fiberglass, plastic, thick wall PVC enclosuresand or other types of fabricated vessels and or bladders to include asuitable control system to enable the floating platform 1 to selectivelystay surfaced or to become a submersible platform 1 being able towithstand such elements the system may be exposed to for prolongeddurations either surfaced or submerged.

The preferred embodiment describing the Control System Logic and BallastManagement is provided in FIG. 11. The controls and support systems maybe mounted within a watertight enclosure 9 FIG. 1 with the appropriateingress and egress connections to facilitate air, water, power andcontrol functions. The controls may be manually or remotely controlledby internal and or external actions in respect to the said enclosure 9FIG. 1 and the required functions therein.

The action of submergence is performed by enabling logic function S2FIG. 11 to activate and open valves to displace the air within theflotation vessels 1A FIG. 1 and to replace said air by the ingress ofballast water by means with such an amount as to achieve the desireddisplacement and buoyancy values within said flotation vessels 1A FIG. 1obtaining the proper depth or draft required for the floating platform 1FIG. 1 when at such time, the logic condition S2 in FIG. 11 is disabled.

The opposite action enabling logic function S1 in FIG. 11 to perform theaction of surfacing or a rising function is the egress of ballast waterbeing displaced with pressurized air to achieve the level of buoyancyrequired and at such time the logic condition S1 in FIG. 11 is disabledand the valves would be deactivated and closed.

The aforementioned preferred ballast management for the floatingplatform 1 FIG. 1 may be locally or remotely controlled and operated bythe use of one or more of the following systems and components: abattery storage system, telemetry signaling control, switches, manualvalves, electric solenoid valves, pneumatic valves, hydraulic controlvalves, check valves, filters, hoses, pipes, tubes and pumps forintroducing into or removing from the floating platform 1 FIG. 1 buoyanttanks with air or other gaseous material from compressed tanks 8 FIG. 1or a hose to provide such a level of flotation and to control anyspecific amount of liquid to be introduced or removed to allow a levelof submergence required. The compressed air tanks 8 FIG. 1 may berecharged from a built in compressor when the floating platform issurfaced or recharged by external means.

The one or more watertight equipment enclosures 9 FIG. 1 mounted to thefloating platform 1 provide a proper environment and containment of oneor many and not limited to the following items inside or externallyconnected to include check valves, manual valves, inlet ports, outletports, solenoid valves that may be electric, hydraulic or pneumatic,both for the control of liquid and gaseous material, relays, switches,pumps, sensors, controllers, telemetry and control circuits along withregulators and power controllers for the storage battery systems.

Externally and connected to the enclosures 9 FIG. 1 are the followinginterfaces and not limited to, visual and acoustic navigation aidsincluding mooring lights, strobe lights, solar panel(s) 7 FIG. 1 forcharging the storage battery systems, light sensor(s), sensors, antennasand inlet valves for pressurized air tanks 8 FIG. 1, piping, flexibletubing, ports, valves and filter(s),

Internally the control systems components are contained within one ormore watertight enclosures 9 FIG. 1 mounted to the floating platform 1FIG. 1 to provide a suitable environment for the containment ofbatteries, relays, valves, pumps, and associated components that mayfurther include and not limited to devices for the control and operationof visual and acoustic navigation aids, data loggers, sensors, beacons,GPS and control systems, computers, externally connected dusk to dawnlight sensors, antennas and solar panel connections for charging of thestorage battery systems and other requirements as may be dictated withthe appropriate watertight bulkhead interfaces.

The floating platform upper deck surface 1B FIG. 1 may be constructed ofmarine grade approved materials preferably being a grated and orperforated decking to allow water to flow downwardly or upwardly throughand to provide additional mounting locations as required for othertopside components or devices.

The preferred embodiments and configuration drawing in FIG. 1 indicate asurface deck 1B on the floating platform 1 with the ported rigidenclosure 2 having two or more ports for presenting the liquid to a port5 and or gaseous material to a port 6, one or more solar panels 7,compressed gas bottles 8 and, may also include the following and notlimited to stanchions with cable or rope for safety, mooring posts,cleats, eye hooks, navigation lights, antennas.

The apparatus and included embodiments may make use of a plurality ofappropriate and sufficient structural members that are welded togetherand or joined with fasteners providing the structural integrity,seaworthiness required, support and mechanical attachment points for theflotation vessel components 1A to and comprising the floating platform 1providing a structural foundation for other mounted and attached devicesor systems.

The floating platform 1 components and all metal materials used infabrication would be selected, preferably by design requirements as notto be affected by environments to which they are exposed to and, tominimize or eliminate any and all potential fatigue points caused bymovement or abrasion.

The embodiments may further contain such additional mechanical andmooring connection points on other surfaces of the floating platform 1to include tethered lines, mooring lines and or mountings for othersuspended and or elevated devices.

Drawing Group 2 and Discussion

FIG. 2 illustrates a side profile of the floating platform 1 thatincorporates a rigid enclosure 2 mounted to the floating platform 1structure providing an opening below for the downwardly directed selfsupporting flexible containment enclosure 1E to be attached from andwithin the inner circumference of said rigid enclosure 2 andadditionally provides the ability to port either liquid product 5 and orgaseous product 6 individually for the extraction of such materials fromthe flexible containment enclosure 1E and said rigid enclosure 2.

FIG. 2 side profile does not show the Solar Panels indicated in FIG. 1.

The gaseous emission component is percolated, expelled or bubbled andbreaks away from the liquid surface caused by a vertical upward flow anddistribution of dispersed gaseous bubbles contained within the selfsupporting flexible containment enclosure 1E and such gaseous materialis constrained within the rigid enclosure 2 and vented to a port 6 forproper and safe handling.

The liquid emission component is provided to a separate port 5 from asubmerged conduit 3 below the water surface of sufficient depth andpreferably to be additionally guyed 4 and or supported by members forenhanced rigidity and structural integrity.

FIG. 2. also illustrates the PONBAD devices 20 extended with thetethered support lines 20A that are normally stowed within the perimeterPONBAD locater buoy support enclosures 10 along with the PONBAD device20 when the floating platform 1 structure is not submerged.

When the floating platform 1 is in the submerged mode, the floatingPONBAD locater devices 20 are constrained and limited to no furtherexceed a depth as defined by the length of line 20A that is attached tothe PONBAD 20 and to the submerged platform 1. The locater suffix to thePONBAD term is a reference to that of being a visual aid where thefloating platform is located when submerged.

The PONBAD buoyant devices 20 connected to the floating platform 1 wouldbe constructed preferably from a 5086 Aluminum Alloy of appropriatedimensions and designed to more than adequately exceed the buoyancyrequirements for the total mass of the floating platform 1 and suspendedattachments when fully submerged.

The PONBAD buoyant devices 20 would further require the structuralrobustness and integrity required of said PONBAD buoyant device that maypotentially be exposed to collisions, shock, impact and potentially aflammable situation and thus being able to withstand and survive suchexposures repeatedly.

The aforementioned PONBAD buoyant devices 20 would preferably beattached with lines 20A using a stainless steel multi-strand cablelaidcoated aircraft cable that provides the required strength andflexibility for stowing and reliable self deployment.

The aforementioned cable assembly 20A may be a predetermined fixedlength or a variable deployed amount such as that contained on a drum orwinch; wherein the tethered cable(s) will be attached to a PONBAD 20buoy of sufficient size and number to provide a buoyancy component toprevent further submergence in depth by the floating platform 1.

The preferred embodiment described primarily addresses the ported andseparated gaseous material from port 6 away from the floating platform 1by optional flaring considerations with two preferable methods andoptions supported, option one is by a separate and integrated flaringsystem FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B or, two is to hand off to a operatormanaged support vessel capable of flaring or storage of the material.

All though not preferable by design or recommended, a flaring tube couldpotentially be constructed and extended directly from the floatingplatform 1 in such a manner as to port the gaseous material directlyfrom the rigid enclosure 2 port 6. This option could be contemplated ifthe floating platform was of significant size and capabilities as toensure the safe handling and the required mechanical structure of theconnected flare to be considered in association with the additionalrequirements and activities. At this time it is strongly discouraged.

The preferable method is supported by a separate and integrated flaringsystem FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B or handed off to a support vessel forflaring or storage if such a vessel is available on station.

The preferred embodiment addresses one method for the crude oil liquidproduct port interface 5 or other liquid material emissions asillustrated in drawing FIG. 2. where a suction or sump conduit from atending vessel or a crude carrier tanker or other means would remove theproduct as required when the volumetric storage capacities of the selfsupporting flexible containment enclosure 1E are such that require suchremoval of material in a timely fashion.

Drawing Group 3 and Discussion

The floating platform 1 and the rigid enclosure 2 of FIG. 2 haveattached from within and suspended downwardly, one or more in lineconsecutively attached containment enclosure segments 1E with thematerial components shown in FIG. 3A, with a primary componentpreferably being a qualified type of heavy duty geomembrane industrialfabric 14 constructed with the appropriate coating and materialthickness to provide a sufficient boundary between liquids containingemissions including a broad range of hydrocarbon liquids and or gaseousproducts to be segregated from the uncontaminated fresh or sea watermarine environment.

The construction and material of one or more self supporting flexiblecontainment enclosures sections 1E may be comprised of one or more panelsections and scaled in size and length to accomplish the objectives ofcontainment, volumetric requirements and, the number of such sectionsthat are required to achieve the distance to the target.

FIGS. 3A, 3B and, 3C illustrate a preferable embodiment in theconstruction and design of one flexible containment enclosure panelsection 14. A self supporting flexible containment enclosure section 1Emay consist of one or a plurality of panel sections 14 connected edge toedge to form one enclosure section and, may be further joined with oneor many additional enclosure sections vertically, providing thenecessary circumferential size to achieve the length and volumetricrequirements.

The preferred embodiment for the construction of the self supportingcontainment enclosures 1E is enhanced by creating a continuous weldmentfor the panel 14 material side edges when joining panel 14 sectionscreating a secure and tight seam.

The application of a support strap 19 folded over and sewn to the panel14 weldment seam along its length and connecting to terminators 17 tointerconnect additional completed containment enclosure 1E sections andprovide the ability to include and connect terminators 18 for otherattachments.

The application of a horizontal seam and weldment to the panel 14material additionally provides a physical means for attaching a strapand the connecting and mating interface at the top and bottom of theenclosure sections 1E for the purpose of interconnecting said enclosuresections.

The top section of panel 14 preferably will use the Y connection 15 FIG.4B and referenced as 15 as in FIG. 3A and other applicable drawings. Thebottom section of panel 14 preferably will use the I connection 16 ofFIG. 4A and referenced as 16 as in FIG. 3A and other applicabledrawings.

FIG. 3A illustrates the additional placement of eyelets or grommets 19Aattached periodically along the length of the strap 19 section. Theeyelets, grommets and terminators may be provided with tethered loophandles, rings or carabiners attached to allow the ROV systems or othersto easily handle, tow and manipulate the self supporting flexiblecontainment enclosure 1E.

FIG. 3B further illustrates a strap termination point (17) using a 316Stainless Steel or other suitable material comprising a terminator strapconnector with a bolt hole for connecting two strap segments 19 byappropriate fasteners. FIG. 3C illustrates an additional 316 StainlessSteel or suitable material protruding termination 18 at a right anglewith a bolt hole for connecting by an appropriate fastener, and isaffixed to provide for the attachments of a PONBAD and or a mooring rodesystem as shown in 20, 21 and 22 of FIG. 5. The strap terminators 17 andterminators 18 are fashioned preferably in having a small radius formedon all edges externally, including the internal cutouts for the strapmaterials or other objects to minimize any abrasion.

An enhanced corner section interface sealing method for the selfsupporting flexible containment enclosure is described below.

FIG. 3D illustrates an interior corner compression assembly 141constructed preferably using a thick wall aluminum plate 14C or otherrigid material, and fabricated in such a manner along the longitudinallength to create a partial and uniform elliptical end. The exteriorsurface 14C having a secured gasket material 14A covering and furtherusing a single or plurality of fastening members 14B to mate saidinterior compression assembly 141 with a similar exterior cornercompression assembly illustrated as 14E FIG. 3E.

FIG. 3E illustrates an exterior corner compression assembly 14Econstructed preferably using a thick wall aluminum plate 14D or otherrigid material, and fabricated in such a manner along the longitudinallength to create a partial and uniform elliptical end. The interiorunderside surface having secured a corresponding gasket material 14Acovering the interior surface 14D with corresponding holes provided forthe previously mentioned fastening members to attach both assemblieswith appropriate fasteners and provide the compression for both gasketmaterial surfaces to each side of the flexible enclosure panel cornersection located and placed between the assemblies 14E FIGS. 3D and 14IFIG. 3E.

FIG. 3E and FIG. 3D are designed to be easily positioned and connectedto each other during deployment, providing for an effective flexiblegasket if required.

The interior radius of the arc or the interior diameter for assembly 14Eof FIG. 3E will be such that it will fit without gaps over the exteriorradius or the outside diameter of assembly 141 of FIG. 3D.

Drawing Group 4 and Discussion

FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B indicate a preferred embodiment in this inventionfor the connection and closure of the self supporting flexiblecontainment enclosures and other attachments. The embodiments arecharacterized by the symbolic shapes of the letter Y and is referencedas 15 typically and shown as a detail (14,15) FIG. 4B and, the letter Iand is referenced as 16 typically and shown as a detail (14,16) FIG. 4A.

The two details noted typically as 15 and 16 are used in multiplediscussion points and are referenced in other drawings or figures as aform of connection.

A connection member for a lower panel 14 section is represented by theletter symbol I with the hook material 16 of FIG. 4A. A connectionmember for the upper portion of the adjoining lower panel 14 section isrepresented by the letter symbol Y with the loop material 15 of FIG. 4B.

A connection for a Y (14,15) shaped design having the loop material sewnor physically attached to both inside flaps of the top inside of the Y(14,15) formed symbol descending downward to the bottom of the Y (14,15)symbol where the two upright lines protruding outwardly form an angle atthe lower section and joined together. The Y (14,15) formed symbol mayinclude additional material within the interior of panel material 14 oradjacent, to provide additional interfacing thickness, stiffening andstability.

A corresponding mating portion for the adjoining connecting panelsection having the hook material sewn or physically attached to bothsides of a vertical member shaped letter symbol I (14,16) that is usedto mate with the loop material for the opposing Y (14,15) formed symbolshape. The I (14,16) formed symbol may include additional materialwithin the interior of panel material 14 or adjacent, to provideadditional interfacing thickness, stiffening and stability.

A flat piece of panel material 14 with hook material on both sides ofthe I (14,16) symbol would then be placed in between the flaps of theloop material inside the Y (14,15) symbol and compressed for closure.

The example describes a method using a six inch wide section of hook andloop material and illustrates the doubling of shear force, providing anefficient method for connecting and securing the self supportingflexible enclosure sections.

Example calculations for a Y (14,15) and I (14,16) connection followsbelow. A single sided application of the hook and loop material maypossess 14 psi of separating shear strength. A 6 inch by 1 inch singlesided piece of said hook and loop material by itself would haveapproximately 84 pounds of shear strength. With this method of hook andloop material being affixed and doubled with both sides of the I (14,16)and Y (14,15) shaped inside flaps utilized, the shear force isapproximately 168 pounds for a 6 inch by 1 inch piece of matingconnection.

The 168 pounds of shear force would then be multiplied by the linearlength of the adjoining section in inches for connection purposes. A sixinch wide connection by 140 inches lengthwise would figuratively yield23,520 pounds of shear force required to separate the two mated panelsection surfaces using the Y and I connection method described.

FIG. 4C illustrates another embodiment in the invention withcapabilities and means if required based on the viscosities encounteredto significantly reduce or to eliminate seepage of material by theinclusion of a resilient and springy type elliptical, rectangular orother appropriate shape, consisting of a material being a silicon,neoprene or other appropriate type material and may have an outwardprotruding portion of material formed such that it may be incorporatedand secured within or between members of panel material 14 and or thehook material 16 during fabrication.

FIG. 4D further illustrates the two mating Y (14,15) and I (14,16)components in relative position prior to closure by means ofcompression. The Y shaped symbol (14,15) in FIG. 4D has a similar typeof a flexible, elastic type elliptical or rectangular material being asilicon, neoprene or other appropriate material having a protruding flatedge of material formed such that it may be incorporated and attachedbetween the members of panel material 14 and loop material 15 duringfabrication and or may be secured by special adhesives or other methods.

The membrane material 15A and 16A shown in FIG. 4D provide a barrierthat is compressed by the adjacent hook and loop material providing aliquid and gas seal.

Mentioned previously, and an additional embodiment in the configurationof the I and Y connection and closure method may include additionalmaterial within the interior of panel material 14 and or between panelmaterial 14 and the hook or loop material attached to provide additionalinterfacing thickness, stiffening and stability.

FIG. 4E further illustrates a female mating connection containingmultiple members of a loop material for receiving a corresponding malegroup of mating members of a hook material illustrated in FIG. 4F.Essentially any number or combination of interfacing hook and loopmaterials and associated external flaps or members may be configured toaccomplish a significantly robust closure and sealing method. The methodmay further entail exterior panels or strips of either a hook or loopand the corresponding material to provide a final seal enclosing asingle or a plurality of internal connections.

Drawing Group 5 and Discussion

In FIG. 5A the quantity, dimensions, material selections and theintended locations for the PONBAD 20 buoyancy attachments are carefullycalculated to provide the desired slight positive or negative buoyancyfor each section or sections of the self supporting flexible containmentenclosure 1E and other associated attachments.

The said self supporting flexible containment enclosure sections 1E canbe made of any length with regard to the practicality and limitations oftransportation, handling and deployment. The preference for a typicaldesign is approximately a 500 foot section 1E comprising a weight justover 2200 pounds. Calculations specifically designed for the attachedPONBADs 20, the buoyancy value may be established for a net positive 100pounds per section, whereas the calculations for the fabrication of thePONBADs 20 could provide any required value of buoyancy.

The PONBAD 20 requirements are based on exacting calculations of thedimensions and material types required to achieve the desired amount ofsufficiency based on F=Vw (Force=Volume Displaced×Weight of the LiquidMedium the buoyancy device is displacing). Considerations are requiredfor the type of material, location of use, environmental, mechanicalcapabilities, depth requirements and other factors.

FIG. 5A illustrates an example of a deployed floating platform 1 andrigid enclosure 2 with the self supporting flexible containmentenclosure 1E descending and connected to the targeted area 23 on theseabed 22 being supported periodically along the length by PONBAD 20attachments. A view is indicated of just one group of mooring lines 21,where a plurality of mooring lines 21 or distributed groups of saidmooring lines 21 may be utilized and determined by situationalrequirements. Where said mooring lines 21 are connected to suitableanchors 22A and secured to the seabed 22.

The illustration represented in FIG. 5A show an arbitrary number of selfsupporting flexible containment enclosure 1E sections and is not limitedby the number of said self supporting flexible enclosure 1E sections.

If requirements exists for rode mooring lines 21 FIG. 5A or other suchadditions to the self supporting flexible containment enclosure, theincrease in the attached weight may be compensated for by theappropriate sizing of, or additional PONBAD 20 devices attached byterminator 20B or additional mounting points on terminator 18 as shownin FIG. 5B.

FIG. 5B further illustrates the connection of the support straps 19 andtermination points for the flexible enclosure sections 1E and the PONBAD20 with the PONBAD attachment line 20A and mooring line 21 secured toterminator 18 being mechanically connected to the terminators 17 of saidflexible enclosure section panel end illustrated in FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C.

FIG. 5A further indicates the targeted area 23 that may be furtherevaluated in detail by FIG. 6A showing said self supporting flexiblecontainment enclosure 1E bottom terminator section to interface with thecompromised situation as an example being a wellhead or a Blow OutPreventer.

An example for a containment and collection solution addressing a 5000foot deep, below the surface wellhead failure may be represented by, aself supporting flexible containment enclosure 1E, comprising of 4panels, 144 inch width for each with 2 inch seams to form one flexiblecontainment enclosure section 1E, a quantity consisting of 12-500 footlong sections 1E with a total length of 6000 feet. Provisions of anextra 20% increase in length account for currents and or slightdeviations allowed from being directly on station. The aforementionedconfiguration provides an approximate capacity of 185,000 barrels plusor 7.7 million gallons plus of liquid product.

A defined and limited amount of slack is advisable and is readilyaccommodated by using additional sectional lengths that are adequate forthe application, anticipated weather conditions, water column currentstrengths, drag force coefficients, depths and location. Anticipations,planning and subsequent deployment considerations increase thereliability of the total system.

The floating platform 1 FIG. 5A can optionally stay on station by one ormore partial rode mooring 21 or guy lines 21 descending to the sea floorand by means of anchoring 22A said mooring lines 21 connected or affixedto the sea floor 22 by means of many known techniques such as deadweight, mushroom or screw in moorings. The mooring lines 21 may providethe appropriate counteractions to water current and wind drift issues.The anchor 22A and mooring lines 21 may also be affixed at predetermineddistances as required along the length of the self supporting flexiblecontainment enclosure 1E or where the PONBAD 20 FIG. 5B terminators 18FIG. 5B are located. A partial rode system of anchoring would beappropriate for the self supporting flexible containment enclosure 1E asillustrated in FIG. 5A where one or more sets of lines 21 specified willmaintain an on station position if not tethered or moored to surfacetenders or ships.

Another embodiment of the floating platform 1 system is that it can beguyed, moored and or make use of attached thrusters or like type motorsoperated by a control system to further assist in keeping the floatingplatform 1 on station in a surfaced or submerged state.

Drawing Group 6 and Discussion

One example of a preferred embodiment of a containment enclosureterminator section interfacing with a compromised well-head or BOP isillustrated in the drawing FIG. 6A.

The well head or BOP riser assembly could very well be cutoff leaving ashort stub where the ROV could easily place the terminator FIG. 6A byusing the handles 28 and manipulate said terminator FIG. 6A over theriser stub, and securing said terminator FIG. 6A by tightening thetapered pointed set bolts 30 onto the riser stub section.

The ROV would remove a plug preferably made of paraffin or rubber orother such material from the lower conduit section 27 of the terminatorFIG. 6A prior to securing it on the BOP riser stub. The purpose of aplug is to prevent the unnecessary entrance of water into thecontainment enclosure 1E during its deployment and descent. Anyentrapped air in the containment enclosure 1E during the deploymentwould rise to the surface and said containment enclosure 1E wouldessentially be collapsed and ready to engage the containment of thecompromised emissions.

Prior to deployment the assemblage of the end point terminator panelenclosure may be accomplished topside by the following method.

The terminator components 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30 shown in FIG. 6B form avertical terminator conduit assembly. The terminator panel enclosuresection assembly 25 FIG. 6A is placed on the deck with the opening atthe bottom center of the panel enclosure located such that the verticalterminator conduit assembly is placed upright within the opening in thecenter of said panel enclosure 25 FIG. 6A.

The panel enclosure section is pulled substantially upward toward thepanel terminator plate 26 FIG. 6B until it will not ascend any further.This is due to the intentional design of the opening of said terminatorpanel enclosure section assembly 25 FIG. 6A being smaller incircumference compared to said terminator plate 26 FIG. 6B. This designmethod will provide a sufficient seal with the split plates 26C FIG. 6Dand the compression straps 26D FIG. 6D secured by fasteners 26Bindicated by the plurality of mounting positions 26A illustrated in theunderside view of plate 26 FIG. 6C.

There may be a number of variations on the attachment and the assemblageof the end point termination assembly without deviating from the generalintent of the invention and designs.

The example illustrated provides a relatively simple and robust assemblythat can be quickly configured topside before deployment.

The terminator plate 26 is designed to be extremely smooth with roundededges to eliminate wear and chaffing and is larger in length and widththan the circumferential lower opening of the terminator panel material25 that is secured to said terminator plate 26.

FIG. 6A further illustrates an upper section eye bolt 29 providing forthe attachment of guy lines 24A between the terminator conduit and thetapered flexible containment enclosure to reduce any unnecessary forcesbetween the vertical terminator conduit 27 and the panel enclosure 25assembly.

FIG. 6A further illustrates a lower section eye bolt 29 providing forthe attachment of guy lines 29A between the terminator conduit 27 andthe object that the terminator is connected to, such as a BOP riser stubto further provide redundancy to the tapered pointed set bolts 30 on theterminator connection where 29A may be mounted to any secure attachmentpoint on the lower portion of the BOP.

The aforementioned completed terminator assembly FIG. 6A would typicallybe constructed and integrated topside before deployment and thenattached to the first flexible containment enclosure sections 1E withFIG. 6A as the first section to go submerged with the suggested andpreviously mentioned paraffin or rubber plug.

Drawing Group 7-8 and Discussion

An additional embodiment of this invention is found in the bridgingcapabilities illustrated in FIG. 7A and FIG. 8 where combining below thefloating submersible platform 1 FIG. 1 a plurality of self supportingcontainment enclosures 1E connected together providing a significantincrease in the volumetric capacity of liquid product and or the abilityto interface with other distribution systems.

Additionally by crafting such enclosures to perform the function ofmultiple self supporting flexible containment enclosures 1E being portedapart and then combined again to form a single enclosure at a sufficientdepth below and attached in a normal singular enclosure section to thefloating platform 1 FIG. 1 provides a significant increase storagecapacity. Additionally, a number of configurations with multiple selfsupporting flexible containment enclosures sections 1E are able to beachieved including connections to one or many terminus sections.

The aforementioned expansion capabilities of the self supportingflexible containment enclosures 1E connected in parallel are illustratedin FIG. 7A being the lower section interface and FIG. 8 being the uppersection interface to combine the two said self supporting containmentenclosures back to a single said self supporting flexible containmentenclosure being connected to the floating platform 1 illustrated in FIG.1.

The additional said self supporting flexible containment enclosures 1Emay be attached to a lower terminator section as is shown in FIG. 7Abeing provisioned with a tee section 27A or manifold with valves 27B toenable and control the flow to a plurality of additional connections andsaid pair of self supporting flexible containment enclosures 1E to beconnected and secured in a parallel fashion.

A flanged port 27D and valve 27B from the tee 27A or manifold could beconfigured to present the liquid and gaseous material product to aconduit routed to a new or existing sea floor distribution system line.A plurality of ports and valves connected to the tee or manifold wouldenable additional volumes of material to be contained and presented tothe floating platform 1 FIG. 1 or temporarily stored in larger bladderenclosures.

Drawing Group 9 and Discussion

FIG. 9 further illustrates yet another preferred embodiment in thisinvention with a lower terminator 25 section connected to the selfsupporting flexible containment enclosure section 1E to address a subsea floor fissure with liquid and or gaseous emissions and, providing anextensible method of positioning and securing the terminator enclosuresection.

The said self supporting containment enclosure section 1E may terminateto a larger enveloped canopy enclosure 25 terminus of any practicalsize, area and height where said enveloped canopy enclosure terminus 25is held in position by mooring lines 21 connected to termination points24 and to 22B a magnetic attachment device that are magnetically engagedby a lever action to the positioned plates of steel 22C or iron, steelI-Beams, or other ferromagnetic material including steel or irondistribution pipes. The magnetic attachment devices when engaged canprovide upwards of 4000 pounds of attachment force.

FIG. 9A further illustrates the attachment of guy lines 24A between thelower and upper terminators 24 incorporated in the enveloped canopyenclosure 25 terminus.

The guy lines 24A reduce unnecessary tension and forces on saidenveloped canopy enclosure 25 terminus enclosure between the lowerterminus sea floor mounting points and the self supporting containmentenclosure 1E assembly.

The tension and forces can be calculated, constructed and minimized bythe exacting values in the PONBAD devices used in the overall selfsupporting flexible containment enclosure system.

Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 9B with theaccessory to perform as a weighted skirt attachment 15 FIG. 9B using thehook and loop mating and closure method and connecting to 16 FIG. 9A.The attachment comprising of 15A and 15 FIG. 9B is fabricated with asleeved opening along the length of the skirt attachment providing theability to place a chain or other weighted material within said sleeve15A FIG. 9B.

The extensibility of the sea floor 25 terminus enclosure example isfurther enhanced by the ability to incorporate the connection ofadditional panel segments illustrated in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B by usingthe Y and I mating connection method and attaching said additionalsegments to the extending connection point 16 FIG. 9. along theperimeter of said sea floor terminus enclosure and constructingoutwardly to achieve a larger coverage area if required.

The flexible containment enclosure 1E may incorporate various forms ofone or many connected terminations to optimally address the type of and,method required to attach various receiving type adapters for gaseousand or liquid product that need to be contained and removed by the selfsupporting flexible containment enclosure 1E. This may includesub-surface weights to hold down and position larger enveloped areas, anexample of such may include one or many sub-sea floor fissures.

The attached termination devices may be tethered, anchored or suspended,to provide a physically, mechanically, magnetically, connecting orenveloping a targeted area.

An additional embodiment may also include a requirement for atermination section containing a remotely powered rotating vane, spiralor multi-bladed system or a means to include the introduction andinjection of a widely dispersed gaseous material to create and assist inproviding the required updraft or movement of material within the selfsupporting flexible containment enclosure from very low pressure orseeping emission locations possibly having varied material types andviscosities to deal with.

Drawing Group 10 and Discussion

FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B illustrate a preferred embodiment being asubordinate accessory feature as referred to in Claim 12 in thisinvention providing for an integrated apparatus to flare or to burn offsuch gaseous emissions that are directed from the gaseous port 6 in FIG.1 or FIG. 2 by the movement of such gaseous material from said port 6through a tethered flexible conduit 46 FIG. 10A to the floating flarebuoyant system 40 FIG. 10A located at an approximal distance on thewater surface 40W. The flexible conduit 46 FIG. 10A may also haveattached to it other transport lines to convey liquid, air, gas andelectricity. An additional and primary consideration is for the purposeof enhancing the electrical grounding and to minimize static and toprovide lightning protection and providing a means to produce the waterspray if required for cooling the flare tube and the electrical poweringof navigation aids and or other requirements.

The tethered conduit 46 FIG. 10A is supported by one or plurality ofguyed hangers 47 and collars 47A connected to flotation enclosures 40where the gaseous emissions are further directed and connected intoconduit 42 and flare conduit 41 that are supported by a plurality ofstructural members 50 FIG. 10B being substantially submerged andpositioned under the waterline.

The flare conduit 41 of FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B emerging from thewaterline in a vertical fashion and said flare conduit 41 of FIG. 10Abeing further secured below with structural members 50 FIG. 10B and aplurality of structural members or guy lines 47 FIG. 10A connected andor secured to a plurality of connected collars 47A FIG. 10A or withfasteners to the lower portion of conduits 41 and 42 of FIG. 10A.

The upper and exposed member of conduit 41 FIG. 10A indicates yetanother feature embodiment and may include an outwardly beveled collar45 attached to preclude substantial amounts of cooling water fromentering said conduit 41 by the use of optional water spray 49 nozzlesor jets mounted on the floating flare platform and directed toward andfor the purpose of cooling said vertical conduit member 41.

If required, said water jets or nozzles that project a spray 49 of waterwould obtain their water supply and pressure from a hose or conduitmember 48 FIG. 10A that may be powered by a pump on the floating flaresystem platform 40 or as illustrated in FIG. 10A from the floatingplatform 1 of FIG. 1 or may be powered by external vessels or by othersources.

Another feature in the embodiment may also include a tapered annulus 43as illustrated in FIG. 10A connected to a conduit 44 for the removal ofany condensate by means of air pressure or a submerged pump 44Aincluding an optional check and or solenoid valve that may be operatedperiodically by a hall effect sensor or high impedance switch or othersuch means that detects the presence of accumulated liquid and willoperate only for such time to remove said liquid.

Another feature in the embodiment not shown, may include a remotelycontrolled battery operated spark igniter to ignite the flare functionadjacent to the opening of conduit 41 connected to the beveled collar 45where such igniter electrodes are mounted near the opening to initiatesaid flare and the actual spark generating control is mounted away fromany damaging heat source.

Drawing Group 11 and Discussion

FIG. 11 is primarily a logic drawing, it does however show a cutawayside view of one flotation vessel 1A containing two ports, the port withthe long vertical conduit being the water port and the port with theshort vertical conduit is the air port with both mounted from the top ofthe buoyancy vessel 1A. Solenoid valves that are not active are normallyclosed with the logic condition being 0 or not enabled.

The action and process of submergence is performed by enabling logicfunction S2 in FIG. 11 will cause activation of a valve to displace theair within the flotation vessels 1A FIG. 1 and to replace the air withthe ingress of such an amount of ballast water by a pump and a valve tocontrol specifically the amount of displacement and buoyancy within thesaid flotation vessels 1A FIG. 1 to achieve the proper depth or draftdesired for the floating platform 1 FIG. 1 when at such time the logiccondition S2 in FIG. 11 is disabled and the associated valves and thepump would be deactivated or closed.

The opposite action enabling logic function S1 in FIG. 11 to perform theaction of surfacing or a rising function is the egress of ballast waterbeing displaced with pressurized air to achieve the level of buoyancyrequired and at such time the logic condition S1 in FIG. 11 beingdisabled and the associated valves would be deactivated or closed.

The two ports mentioned may be mounted at other locations if required,preferably within the interior perimeter of the floating platform 1 FIG.1 plurality of flotation vessels 1A FIG. 1 and to the exterior uppervertical surface of said flotation vessels 1A FIG. 1 mid-positionlocated at the highest location on the vertical surface.

In accordance with the aforementioned and described embodiments of thepresent invention there may be inclusions, omissions or alterations thatmay be made without departure from the intended spirit thereof.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An apparatus and means for the collection,containment and presentation of gaseous and or liquid hydrocarbonmaterial products from compromised sub sea surface pipelines, well headassemblies, surface floor fissures and or other underwater situationswhereas the management of material from said compromised situations maybe contained and presented for safe and efficient removal beingcomprised of the following systems and components: a floating platformwith means capable of maintaining extended submersion and surfacingintervals of said floating platform by use of a buoyancy control systemand said floating platform integrated with a rigid containment enclosureproviding liquid and gaseous material ports; a downwardly directed meansof attachment and connection of one or a plurality of self supportingflexible containment enclosure sections and terminus sections; afloating flare platform with means connecting in proximity to saidfloating platform rigid containment enclosure system gaseous materialport.
 2. An apparatus of claim 1 and means wherein said systems andcomponents are configured to address a number of in situ remedies basedon estimates of on station duration requirements, projected weatherconditions, depth to target requirements, projected type of emissionsand quantities that are to be contained and brought to the surface forremoval, available support vessels, with the said apparatus, systemsand, components further comprising: a floating platform with means tobecome fully submersible and rise to the surface again by the commandsand actions from said buoyant control system with ballast materialsadded or removed from one or many buoyant vessels of said floatingplatform; a rigid and ported semi-submerged enclosure mechanicallymounted and secured to said floating platform that is open from thebottom and supporting from within and downwardly an open conduit intoand below the liquid surface and connected to a port providing the meansfor removal of liquid material; a self supporting flexible containmentenclosure connected within and descending downwardly from the insidecircumference of said rigid and ported semi-submerged enclosure; a saidself supporting flexible containment enclosure made of one or moresections of suitable fabric and other materials; a said self supportingflexible containment enclosure with means to adapt a number of types andconfigurations of lower termination sections; an incorporation ofPositive Offset Neutral Buoyancy Attachment Devices—a PONBAD buoyantcomponent or device.
 3. An apparatus in claim 2 wherein said PONBADbuoyant components or devices are comprised of and by means of rigoroussteps in the selection of materials, specific dimensions, methods ofconstruction, connection methods and the exacting calculations requiredfor the PONBADs and their respective locations of use and purpose, withthe definition of PONBAD for this invention being a “Positive OffsetNeutral Buoyancy Attachment Device” means used for defining andproviding the exacting needs to suspend, support, maintain tension andto position the apparatuses, components and, systems as described inthis invention.
 4. An apparatus in claim 2 further comprising saidfloating platform with means that can remain at the surface orelectively be submerged for extended periods to any depth within and notto exceed a fixed predetermined depth and, be brought back to thesurface on demand and controlled by means of said buoyant controlsystem.
 5. An apparatus in claim 4 further comprising a plurality ofsaid PONBAD buoys extended from said floating platform and connectedwith a fixed length of cable, wire, rope, tether or other means todisallow submergence any lower than a fixed and predetermined distance.6. An apparatus in claim 2 further comprising said rigid and portedenclosure secured to said floating platform structure with meansproviding for a physical boundary to isolate any gaseous material fromescaping other than through one or more designated ports, where saidrigid and ported enclosure will protrude below the waterline surface forsuch a depth to ensure the effective isolation required in providingcontainment within said rigid and ported enclosure and the boundarylayer of the liquid surface to ensure the safe handling and egress ofsaid gaseous material in order that it may be diverted, collected and orflared as requirements dictate.
 7. An apparatus in claim 2 with furthermeans comprising a said downwardly directed self supporting flexiblecontainment enclosure of any variable length, size and number ofsections defined to be of sufficient means for the volumetricrequirements and length required to reach the targeted area and furthercomprising: an upper section of said self supporting flexiblecontainment enclosure that is physically connected above the waterlineand within the inner circumference of said floating platforms portedrigid enclosure as described in claim 4; a circumferential size andlength of said self supporting flexible containment enclosure adjustedby means prior to fabrication and deployment to accommodate theprojected volumetric requirements with less or additional materialsegments and material widths that are to be connected; a further meansto configure and bridge or join together at the lower and upper sectionsof said self supporting flexible containment enclosures additional saidself supporting flexible containment enclosures to substantiallyincrease the volumetric capacity and to include by means of a single ora plurality of various end terminator sections; a connection meansincluding one or a plurality of additional said termination points atthe beginning and end of said self supporting flexible containmentenclosure sections secured together with said additional terminationpoints incorporated for the attachment of said PONBAD buoyancy devicesas described in claim 3 and, or additional attachments of mooring linesand, or other devices.
 8. An appropriate lower termination section ofsaid flexible self supporting containment enclosure as referenced inclaim 2 with means to address a physical connection and or be held inplace, or by encompassing a compromised area, wherein said lowertermination section may be tapered, tethered, anchored or suspended,covering a larger or smaller area by physically, mechanically,magnetically, connecting to or enveloping the targeted area by suchmethods.
 9. An apparatus in claim 2 wherein said self supportingflexible containment enclosure and other attachments having such meansmay additionally include a connection method comprising: A connectionmeans for attachment of multiple self supporting flexible containmentenclosure sections, terminator sections and, or other components toinclude using a hook and loop material; A mated connection having one ora plurality of insertion members with either a hook or loop materialattached to one or both sides of said members and to be inserted intoone or a plurality of receiving members having either the correspondingopposing and mating hook or loop material attached to one or both sidesof said receiving members; The said insertion members and receivingmembers are physically positioned and with appropriate compression ofsuch members providing the required connection assemblage; The exteriorof the mated assemblage may have additional hook or loop materialaffixed for the means and purposes of additional attachments or seals.10. An apparatus in claim 1 further including a means for an alternativeconnection from said floating platforms rigid ported enclosure describedin claim 4 to a said independent floating platform incorporating a flaresystem to provide as requirements dictate, the means to direct thegaseous hydrocarbons for the purpose of safely burning off such gaseousproduct in lieu of an appropriate vessel to accomplish the flaring task.